Mobile phones are important, but can cost you. Before you get one, ask yourself:
- What will I use it for? To receive calls or to make calls?
- Who will I call? And for how long? How many calls will I make each month?
- Can I buy a good second hand phone or does someone have one they don’t use?
If you decide to get a phone, remember…
- The best advice anyone can give you about mobile phone contracts is to get PRE-PAID!
- Call people on their landline, local calls are a fixed cost no matter how long you talk.
- If you don’t need to talk for long, send a text message instead.
- NEVER use your mobile to call overseas. Prepaid calling cards are much cheaper.
- Never borrow money to pay your phone bill. Ask about a repayment plan if you’re struggling.
- Some plans offer “free” calls per month, e.g. a $49 plan gives you $200 worth of calls. These plans can be good ONLY if you stay UNDER the capped amount, otherwise you will pay much more than other plans or prepaid. Shop around for the best deal.
- Don’t let others use your mobile phone.
Before you sign a contract – find out:
- What happens if you cancel the contract early – do you still have to pay the monthly fee until the contract finishes? How much will it cost?
- The call rate per minute. How does it compare to other plans?
More Information –
Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
Str8tlk
